How Did a Backyard Game Become a National Obsession? The Complete History of Pickleball

New players often ask where the game began and how the history of pickleball really unfolded. With so many competing stories, clear answers can be hard to find.

Here is what matters. Pickleball started in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. It grew from a simple backyard fix for boredom into a sport played in every single state.

Key Takeaways

• Backyard Beginnings: Pickleball was created in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, WA, by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum using ping pong paddles and a wiffle-style ball.
• The Name Game: The sport’s name most likely originated from Joan Pritchard’s reference to a rowing “pickle boat,” a term for a crew of leftover rowers—not the family dog.
• From Court to Tournament: The first permanent court was built in 1967, the first organized tournament launched in 1976, and the USAPA unified the sport's rules by 1984.
• Explosive Growth: By early 2025, the U.S. had nearly 70,000 courts and over eight million players, with the SFIA naming pickleball America’s fastest-growing sport for multiple years.
• Universal Appeal: Its simple rules, approachable gear, social nature, and support across school and senior programs make pickleball a beloved sport for all ages.

Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum built the first version with ping pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball. From that simple start, the sport now fills dedicated pickleball courts and fuels pro events like Major League Pickleball.

This article walks through the journey, from a taped badminton court to the world of professional pickleball. It explains the early rules, the non-volley zone, and why the gear—including perforated plastic balls and wooden paddles—shaped the game we see today. It also settles the name debate, explores why all ages love the sport, and shares a few surprises that even long-time fans will enjoy.

The Origins of Pickleball

The story of pickleball's origins begins on Bainbridge Island, Washington State, when Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum improvised a family game with ping pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball.

During the summer of 1965, they taped lines on an old badminton court and started hitting. Because the court was smaller than tennis, engaging rallies began right away.

Where and when was pickleball created?

In the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island in Washington State, neighbors Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell set out to beat weekend boredom. They found an old badminton court behind Pritchard’s house and began experimenting.

Using a wiffle-style plastic ball, table tennis paddles, and a lowered net at 36 inches, they successfully built a game that kids and adults could play together.

It started as a simple backyard activity that brought families together on lazy Pacific Northwest afternoons.

The sport ingeniously blended ideas from tennis, racquetball, and ping pong, yet relied on basic items just lying around the house. Early sessions were casual and crowded, and the simple setup helped everyone stay in the action. That small start ultimately sparked an American tradition that now fills parks, schools, and clubs in all fifty states.

Who founded pickleball?

Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum are credited as the founders of pickleball. The trio, all neighbors on Bainbridge Island, tuned the game for family play using a badminton court, ping pong paddles, and a plastic ball.

Together, they refined the core ideas that still guide modern pickleball rules. Joan Pritchard, Joel’s wife, also played a key role by helping to shape the sport’s identity with its quirky name.

That strong foundation led to permanent courts, national events, and today’s professional pickleball scene, including showcases run by USA Pickleball and large televised competitions.

How were the original equipment and rules developed?

In 1965, the group lacked tennis rackets and a shuttlecock, so they reached for ping pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball. The net on the old badminton court was dropped to 36 inches to keep it friendly for kids.

They borrowed a few badminton ideas and then trimmed the rest for simplicity. Early rules featured clear service courts, lines for out of bounds, and a safe non-volley zone near the net.

Early paddles were cut from wood in garages; modern paddles, in contrast, now use composite materials such as carbon fiber. In 1967, Bob O’Brian built the first permanent pickleball court at his home in Washington State.

Consequently, formal rulebooks arrived as governing bodies, including Pickle Ball Inc., worked with leaders who later unified the rules under the USA Pickleball Association in 1984.

How Pickleball Got Its Name

The name often sparks debate. Some point to a rowing term called the “pickle boat.” Others repeat a friendly dog story. Both versions came from the same Bainbridge Island circle, where a simple yard game used ping pong paddles and a plastic ball with holes.

What is the connection between pickleball and the "pickle boat"?

Joan Pritchard, wife of founder Joel, suggested “pickleball” after the term “pickle boat” in rowing. A pickle boat crew is typically made from leftover rowers from other boats.

Her family had pieced the game together on Bainbridge Island with leftover badminton court equipment, ping pong paddles, and a perforated plastic ball. The creative parallel was obvious.

Historical notes, including comments from their son Frank Pritchard, echo this origin. It perfectly matches how the sport combined spare parts and ideas to create something entirely new.

"The thrown-together aspect of pickleball’s creation inspired its quirky name," said Frank Pritchard.

This origin celebrates creativity and resourcefulness, not strict plans and complex rules.

Are there other theories about how pickleball got its name?

A popular tale suggests the sport was named after the Pritchard family dog, Pickles. A 1970s national news story helped spread that version, and even the founders repeated it at times for fun.

However, records show that Pickles the dog joined the family in 1968, approximately three years after the game started on Bainbridge Island. That timeline makes the dog story quite unlikely.

Joel Pritchard himself credited Joan’s “pickle boat” idea for the name. Even with that clear record, the dog myth lives on and adds a layer of charm to the sport’s early days.

Early Development of the Sport

The first permanent pickleball court arrived on Bainbridge Island, painted on an asphalt surface with a sturdy pickleball net. Within a few years, organized tournaments began shaping the rules and the nature of competition.

When was the first pickleball court built?

In 1967, Bob O’Brian built the first permanent court at his Bainbridge Island home. The founders helped with the design so players could stop resetting lines on a badminton court every weekend.

That dedicated setup created a reliable gathering spot with clear boundaries and ample space for repeat play. It also sped up the learning curve for newcomers who were using table tennis paddles and a perforated plastic ball.

With a home base firmly in place, the sport transitioned from casual backyard fun to something that could be organized and shared more widely.

What was the first pickleball tournament like?

The first official pickleball tournament was held in 1976 at the Southcenter Athletic Club in Tukwila, Washington. Players used large wooden paddles and a heavier, softball-sized plastic ball on a modified badminton court.

Many of the competitors were college tennis players testing a new game with a smaller non-volley zone and fresh scoring rules. David Lester won Men’s Singles, and Steve Paranto took second place.

That event marked a significant turning point. Crowds responded enthusiastically, and interest quickly spread across the Pacific Northwest. Soon after, more courts and clubs began to appear beyond Washington.

Growth of Pickleball in America

Pickleball rapidly moved from neighborhoods to community centers, then into schools and private clubs. As the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) established common standards, more people were drawn to tournaments and adaptive programs.

How was the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) formed?

In 1984, the USA Pickleball Association was formed to serve as the national guide for the sport. Volunteers and early leaders wanted to create consistent play from one region to the next.

To achieve this, USAPA published the first official pickleball rulebook, outlining court size, net height, paddle specifications, and scoring. These standard rules allowed tournament directors to run fair brackets across different states.

The group’s work opened doors for national championships, rating systems such as the USA Pickleball tournament player rating, and organized clinics that welcomed beginners.

How did pickleball expand across all 50 states?

1. By 1990, pickleball had reached all 50 U.S. states through clubs, recreation centers, and retirement communities eager to host games.
2. Teaching by early champions like Pritchard, Bell, and McCallum inspired new players across Washington State and beyond.
3. USAPA standardized gear, including the perforated plastic ball, lightweight paddles, and court markings such as the non-volley zone.
4. Parks converted badminton and tennis spaces with temporary or permanent pickleball nets, supporting both indoor and outdoor play.
5. Senior centers promoted pickleball as a low-impact recreational activity, and the Arizona Senior Olympics helped spotlight older athletes.
6. National showcases, including the US Open Pickleball Championships, drew TV coverage and attracted new fans.
7. Schools added pickleball to physical education, letting kids learn early and play year-round.
8. Online forums, social media, and rating systems connected players and clubs, accelerating growth across regions.
9. Wheelchair sports programs built wheelchair pickleball divisions with accessible service courts for adaptive athletes.
10. Pioneering companies like Pickle Ball Inc., founded in 1972, sold starter kits for home play and supported events across the nation.

How did pickleball become part of senior events?

Pickleball quickly caught on in retirement communities thanks to its low-impact style and easy learning curve. A major step came in 2001 when the Arizona Senior Olympics hosted 100 players, which was the largest pickleball event at the time.

By 2008, the National Senior Games Association officially added pickleball as a sport. As a result, more senior tournaments followed, along with indoor courts to facilitate year-round play.

These milestones drew countless older adults into the game and helped fuel its wider growth among families, schools, and clubs.

The Modern Era of Pickleball

As national events and professional leagues like Major League Pickleball came online, public interest surged. The sport swiftly shifted from local courts to primetime broadcasts, major sponsorships, and packed tournament brackets.

When was pickleball recognized as America’s fastest-growing sport?

In 2022, the SFIA officially named pickleball America’s fastest-growing sport for the second year in a row. USA Pickleball membership jumped nearly 30 percent that year, reaching 70,000 by February 2023.

Media coverage, social media clips, and facility upgrades brought in new players for both indoor and outdoor sessions. In fact, SFIA tallied more than 8.9 million pickleball players ages six and up in 2023, a dramatic increase from 4.8 million in 2022.

Furthermore, investments from public figures, including LeBron James in Major League Pickleball, drew headlines and spurred more court construction nationwide.

Why is pickleball popular among all age groups?

The game is remarkably easy to start and quick to enjoy. A lighter paddle and a plastic ball reduce strain compared to tennis or other racquet sports, which helps protect elbows and shoulders.

Simple pickleball rules, a smaller court, and lower equipment costs welcome beginners on day one. Groups like the USA Pickleball Association support youth, adult, and senior play, alongside collegiate pickleball events.

Former tennis players often switch because rallies come fast, yet the motion is kinder to joints. Pro tours, Major League Pickleball teams, and national broadcasts inspire younger athletes while keeping long-time players engaged. The demand for elegant and functional outfits has also grown, leading many to explore dedicated collections like **our pickleball apparel collection**.

How have pickleball clubs and facilities increased?

Access has expanded at a remarkable pace. Cities, suburbs, and retirement communities now offer far more places to play.

1. Pickleball courts grew from roughly 1,500 in 2008 to nearly 70,000 by early 2025, covering both indoor and outdoor settings.
2. Private tennis clubs added permanent pickleball courts, marking lines for the non-volley zone and service boxes.
3. Parks departments split underused tennis courts into multiple pickleball courts, boosting access for all skill levels.
4. During the COVID-19 pandemic, local groups successfully lobbied for outdoor lines and nets, turning empty spaces into courts.
5. Public parks installed permanent nets, and large cities built dedicated complexes with support from the USA Pickleball Association and partner groups.
6. Major League Pickleball events brought in high-profile investors like LeBron James and Gary Vaynerchuk, which encouraged facility upgrades.
7. The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour showcased new venues, attracting further funding for expansion.
8. Retirement communities in Arizona, Florida, and Washington State became hot spots with consistent indoor and outdoor play.
9. Modern clubs now offer skill ratings, skinny singles leagues, para-pickleball, and events tied to international federations.
10. Today, most mid-sized cities list numerous public or private places to play, reflecting the sport's meteoric rise.

More courts mean faster entry for new players, stronger local leagues, and better practice for competitors chasing rankings.

Community and Health Benefits of Pickleball

Pickleball suits nearly every age and skill level. The court is smaller, the gear is light, and the play is inherently social, which makes it easy to return week after week.

How accessible is pickleball for different skill levels?

Players can start with minimal experience. The founders, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum, intentionally kept the rules simple so families could play right away.

Light paddles reduce fatigue, and a smaller playing area shortens the chase. This design keeps rallies fun without requiring long sprints.

Tournaments from the Association of Pickleball Professionals and USA Pickleball use player ratings to create fair brackets. Leagues welcome beginners working on serves and footwork, alongside veterans preparing for national championships.

Retirement communities offer both indoor and outdoor courts, so seniors can play safely and often. Key features like the non-volley zone help beginners control the pace while still testing skilled players.

What are the physical and mental health benefits of pickleball?

Pickleball supports a strong body and a sharp mind. The game feels friendly, yet it delivers real wellness gains.

1. Steady movement improves heart health on both outdoor surfaces and indoor courts.
2. Balance and coordination grow through quick steps, sideline defense, and net play near the non-volley zone.
3. Regular matches aid weight management with short bursts that burn calories at any age.
4. Social play lowers stress in clubs, parks, and senior events as friendly competition boosts mood.
5. Strategy and split-second choices train focus and reaction time under standard pickleball rules.
6. Confidence increases as players hit milestones and earn higher pickleball player ratings.
7. Joint-friendly rallies help older adults and those returning from injury. Lightweight paddles and a soft plastic ball reduce strain compared to heavier racquet sports.

These benefits explain why more Americans are joining local facilities, teaming up for leagues, and following Major League Pickleball and PPA tour highlights.

How does pickleball help build social connections?

Pickleball brings people closer, both on the court and between games. Short breaks naturally spark conversation, and friendly partners often turn into lasting friends.

Local clubs set up weekly play, ladders, and mixers that create close-knit circles. Furthermore, national groups like the USA Pickleball Association and leagues such as Major League Pickleball add shared goals, events, and community pride.

Senior players, families, and teens find common ground on the same court. That powerful sense of belonging keeps players active and coming back for more.

Conclusion

From a taped badminton court on Bainbridge Island to packed arenas, pickleball has stayed true to its fun, accessible roots. Founders Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum favored simple pickleball rules and easy gear like perforated plastic balls and wood paddles.

Today’s scene includes school programs, retirement communities, and pro showcases such as the Professional Pickleball Association and Major League Pickleball. Learning the history of pickleball makes each rally feel connected to something bigger—a sport built for play and for people.

Grab a paddle, find a local pickleball court, and join the tradition. The game offers exercise, friendships, and a place for every kind of player.